Synthesis of hexagonal GaN nanoplates via a convenient solid state reaction

Abstract

Recently, extensive experimental and theoretical studies on single layers of GaN, BN, and grapheme have stimulated enormous interest in the synthesis and exploring properties of these sheets. In the present work, hexagonal wurtzite GaN nanoplates were synthesized by a solid-state reaction of metallic magnesium powder, Ga2O3 and NaN3 in a stainless steel autoclave at 600°C. These hexagonal nanoplates with an average thickness of 30nm and diameters are about 270–320nm. It was found that the reaction temperature has a significant effect on the morphologies of the products. It did not favor the well-regulated hexagonal nanoplates when the temperature at 500°C and 700°C. Furthermore, the Raman spectroscopy and room-temperature photoluminescence spectrum of the hexagonal GaN nanoplates were investigated. The data indicate the GaN structure has defects.